Inductive LED Jewelry

ABSTRACT

A jewelry apparatus including a power module, a magnetically permeable band connected to the power module, the magnetically permeable band including a core and a primary winding disposed around the core, the primary winding electrically connected to the power module. A bead can have an aperture shaped to receive the magnetically permeable band, the bead including a secondary winding positioned around the magnetically permeable band when the magnetically permeable band is received through the aperture, and at least one light source electrically connected to the secondary winding. The core in the magnetically permeable band can include a flexible band of magnetically permeable cores, or the core can otherwise be flexible. The jewelry apparatus can include a wireless transceiver either on the power module or the bead such that the jewelry apparatus can be communicated wirelessly with other jewelry apparatuses.

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims benefit of the following patent application(s)which is/are hereby incorporated by reference: Ser. No. 61/975,384,filed on Apr. 4, 2014, entitled Jewelry with Radio Frequency Technology,Ser. No. 61/975,418, filed on Apr. 4, 2014, entitled Induction LEDJewelry; and Ser. No. 61/916,450, filed on Dec. 16, 2013, entitled LEDJewelry.

A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains materialthat is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has noobjection to the reproduction of the patent document or the patentdisclosure, as it appears in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office patentfile or records, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable

REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING OR COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTING APPENDIX

Not Applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to jewelry. Jewelry can includebut is not limited to necklaces, bracelets, and rings, worn around theneck, wrists, and fingers respectively, as well as other forms ofjewelry commonly known in the art.

More particularly, this invention pertains to light up charm jewelry. Inconventional charm jewelry, a chain made of metal, plastic, leather,faux leather, or other suitable material can be provided and multiplebeads or charms can slide onto a chain one at a time by the user toproduce different configurations and jewelry appearances. The beads orcharms can be purchased separately, allowing the user to tailor orpersonalize the jewelry to their particular liking. However, in theseconventional embodiments, the only visual effect that can be changed isthe aesthetic design of the beads themselves and the arrangement of thebeads on the chain. There are currently no lighting capabilities inconventional charm jewelry.

There is also conventional light up jewelry. These conventionalembodiments include a chain with one or more light sources on the chain.These light sources are generally in a fixed location on the chain, asthe light sources on the jewelry are hardwired to a power source. Theorientation of the light sources is permanent as changing the positionof the light sources would require the jewelry to be rewired. Suchembodiments do not allow for personalization of the jewelry by the user.In other embodiments, a light source can be located on a bead, and aseparate power source can be connected to each light source on eachbead. Such a design can be cumbersome as each bead or charm must beturned on individually. Additionally, having a power source on each beadfor each light source can be cost prohibitive.

What is needed, then, are improvements to existing jewelry that can helpprovide light up beads or charms that can be adjustable,interchangeable, or repositionable on a piece of jewelry.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One aspect of the present disclosure is a jewelry apparatus including apower module and a magnetically permeable band connected to the powermodule. The magnetically permeable band can include a core and a primarywinding disposed around the magnetically permeable band, the primarywinding electrically connected to the power module. A bead can have anaperture shaped to receive the magnetically permeable band. The bead caninclude a secondary winding positioned around the magnetically permeableband when the magnetically permeable band is received through theaperture. The bead can also include at least one light sourceelectrically connected to the secondary winding. In some embodiments,the magnetically permeable band can include a flexible band ofmagnetically permeable cores.

The power module can supply an AC current to the primary winding. Thealternating current through the primary winding can produce a changingmagnetic flux through the magnetically permeable band. A bead can slideonto the magnetically permeable band over the primary winding. Thechanging magnetic flux in the magnetically permeable band can induce acurrent in the secondary winding on the bead. The current produced inthe secondary winding can then power the light source, thereby causingthe light source to become illuminated. As such, the bead can freelymove along the magnetically permeable band with the light sourceremaining lit. Multiple beads can also be placed or arranged on themagnetically permeable core such that a user can personalize the lightup beads on the jewelry.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is a jewelry apparatus having afirst jewelry assembly and a second jewelry assembly. The first jewelryassembly can have a first power module, a first magnetically permeableband connected to the first power module, the first magneticallypermeable band including a first core and a first primary windingdisposed around the first core. The first jewelry assembly can include afirst bead having a first aperture shaped to receive the firstmagnetically permeable band, the first bead including a first secondarywinding positioned around the first magnetically permeable band when thefirst aperture receives the first magnetically permeable band, and afirst light source electrically connected to the first secondarywinding. The second jewelry assembly can similarly include a secondpower module, a second magnetically permeable band connected to thesecond power module, the second magnetically permeable band including asecond core and a second primary winding disposed around the secondmagnetically permeable band, a second bead having a second apertureshaped to receive the second magnetically permeable band, a secondsecondary winding positioned around the second magnetically permeableband when the second aperture receives the second magnetically permeableband, and a second light source electrically connected to the secondsecondary winding.

The apparatus can include a wireless network configured to communicatethe first and second jewelry assemblies with one another such thatdifferent users each wearing a jewelry assembly can communicatewirelessly with one another via beads on the respective jewelryassemblies. For instance, in one embodiment, the first and second lightsources can be configured to light up when the two jewelry apparatusesare proximate to one another which can indicate that a “friend” isnearby.

Numerous other objects, advantages and features of the present inventionwill be readily apparent to those of skill in the art upon a review ofthe following drawings and description of a preferred embodiment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a jewelry apparatushaving a power module, a magnetically permeable band, and one or morebeads.

FIG. 2 is a partial exploded view of the magnetically permeable band ofFIG. 1.

FIG. 2 a is a detailed view of the embodiment of FIG. 2 showing anexemplary connection between a primary winding and a lead wire.

FIG. 3 is a detailed view of a bead disposed on the magneticallypermeable band of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is an exploded view of the bead from FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the power module of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a jewelryapparatus including a charging station.

FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the charging station of FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is a perspective top view of the charging station of FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 is a back view of the power module of FIG. 1.

FIG. 10 is an exemplary circuit diagram for the power module of FIG. 1.

FIG. 11 is an exemplary circuit diagram for the bead of FIG. 1.

FIG. 12 a shows another embodiment of a jewelry apparatus showing firstand second jewelry assemblies including a wireless network forcommunicating the two jewelry assemblies, the power modules of eachassembly communicating with one another.

FIG. 12 b shows another embodiment of the apparatus of FIG. 12 a showingthe beads on each assembly wirelessly communicating with one another.

FIG. 12 c shows another embodiment of the apparatus of FIG. 12 a showingthe power module of one assembly wirelessly communicating with one ormore beads of the other assembly.

FIG. 13 is an exemplary circuit diagram for the wireless network used inthe jewelry apparatus of FIG. 12 c.

FIG. 14 is a flow diagram of exemplary programming logic that can beused for the circuit diagram of FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is an exemplary circuit diagram for an embodiment of a “timed”bead.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

While the making and using of various embodiments of the presentinvention are discussed in detail below, it should be appreciated thatthe present invention provides many applicable inventive concepts thatis embodied in a wide variety of specific contexts. The specificembodiments discussed herein are merely illustrative of specific ways tomake and use the invention and do not delimit the scope of theinvention.

To facilitate the understanding of the embodiments described herein, anumber of terms are defined below. The terms defined herein havemeanings as commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in theareas relevant to the present invention. Terms such as “a,” “an,” and“the” are not intended to refer to only a singular entity, but ratherinclude the general class of which a specific example may be used forillustration. The terminology herein is used to describe specificembodiments of the invention, but their usage does not delimit theinvention, except as set forth in the claims.

As described herein, an upright position is considered to be theposition of apparatus components while in proper operation or in anatural resting position as described herein. Vertical, horizontal,above, below, side, top, bottom and other orientation terms aredescribed with respect to this upright position during operation unlessotherwise specified. The term “when” is used to specify orientation forrelative positions of components, not as a temporal limitation of theclaims or apparatus described and claimed herein unless otherwisespecified. The term “lateral” denotes a side to side direction whenfacing the “front” of an object.

The phrase “in one embodiment,” as used herein does not necessarilyrefer to the same embodiment, although it may. Conditional language usedherein, such as, among others, “can,” “might,” “may,” “e.g.,” and thelike, unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understoodwithin the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certainembodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certainfeatures, elements and/or states. Thus, such conditional language is notgenerally intended to imply that features, elements and/or states are inany way required for one or more embodiments or that one or moreembodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or withoutauthor input or prompting, whether these features, elements and/orstates are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment.

This written description uses examples to disclose the invention andalso to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention,including making and using any devices or systems and performing anyincorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is definedby the claims, and may include other examples that occur to thoseskilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within thescope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differfrom the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalentstructural elements with insubstantial differences from the literallanguages of the claims.

It will be understood that the particular embodiments described hereinare shown by way of illustration and not as limitations of theinvention. The principal features of this invention may be employed invarious embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention.Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize numerous equivalentsto the specific procedures described herein. Such equivalents areconsidered to be within the scope of this invention and are covered bythe claims.

All of the apparatuses and/or methods disclosed and claimed herein maybe made and/or executed without undue experimentation in light of thepresent disclosure. While the apparatuses and methods of this inventionhave been described in terms of the embodiments included herein, it willbe apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that variations may beapplied to the apparatuses and/or methods and in the steps or in thesequence of steps of the method described herein without departing fromthe concept, spirit, and scope of the invention. All such similarsubstitutes and modifications apparent to those skilled in the art aredeemed to be within the spirit, scope, and concept of the invention asdefined by the appended claims.

A perspective view of an embodiment of a jewelry apparatus 10 of thepresent disclosure is shown in FIG. 1. The jewelry apparatus 10 caninclude a power module 12 and a magnetically permeable band 14. In FIG.1, the jewelry apparatus 10 can further include a fabric covering 16 atleast partially enclosing the magnetically permeable band 14. The fabriccovering 16 can help provide a soft contact with a user's body when thejewelry apparatus 10 is being worn. The magnetically permeable band 14can have a variety of lengths such that the jewelry apparatus 10 can beused for a variety of uses, including but not limited to, bracelets,necklaces, and rings. The apparatus 10 can include one or more beads 18disposed on the magnetically permeable band 14. The power module 12 cansupply power to the jewelry apparatus 10.

A partial exploded view of the magnetically permeable band 14 is shownin FIG. 2. The magnetically permeable band 14 can include a core 20. Thecore 20 can be made of a magnetically permeable material, including butnot limited to, ferrite, iron, steel, etc. The magnetically permeableband 14 can also include a primary winding 22 disposed around the core20. The primary winding 22 can be wound around the core 20 to form acoil. In some embodiments, the magnetically permeable core can bestandard 30 AWG magnet wire. In some embodiments, the magneticallypermeable band 14 can include a winding wrapping layer 24. In someembodiments, the winding wrapping layer 24 can be a shrink wrap materialthat can be placed over the primary winding 22 and heated in order toshrink around the primary winding 22. As such, the primary winding 22can be fixed in position on the core 20. In some embodiments, thewinding wrapping layer 24 can also provide a layer of insulation aroundthe primary winding 22 which can help protect the primary winding 22from shorting with other components of the jewelry apparatus 10, orprovide a layer of protection from the environment and potentiallyharmful elements such as liquids or dust, which can potentially affectthe efficiency of the jewelry apparatus 10.

In some embodiments, the core 20 can be rigid and formed into a desiredshape, such as a bracelet or necklace. In other embodiments, themagnetically permeable band 14 can be flexible and have a flexible core20. In some embodiments, the core can consist of a compactedmagnetically permeable powder in flexible tubing. In other embodiments,as shown in FIG. 2, the magnetically permeable band 14 can include aflexible band of magnetically permeable cores 26. In some embodiments,the flexible band of magnetically permeable cores 26 can include aplurality of ferrite beads. The ferrite beads can be strung together toform a flexible band that can be bent or adjusted by the user to takethe jewelry apparatus 10 on and off of the user's person. A flexiblemagnetically permeable band 14 can also provide an added layer ofcomfort as the flexible magnetically permeable band 14 can conform tothe user's body as the jewelry apparatus 10 is being worn.

In some embodiments, the magnetically permeable band 14 can furtherinclude a core wrapping layer 28. The core wrapping layer 28 can includea shrink wrap material that can be heated to shrink the core wrappinglayer 28 around the flexible band of magnetically permeable cores 26.During assembly of the magnetically permeable band 14, the magneticallypermeable cores 26 can be compressed or pushed together to help reducegaps between the cores 26, which can help improve the performance of theband of magnetically permeable cores 26 as a magnetic flux passesthrough the magnetically permeable cores 26. The core wrapping layer 28can then be heated and shrunk around the band of magnetically permeablecore 26 to help keep the magnetically permeable cores 26 compressedtogether. The core wrapping layer 28 can also provide a layer ofinsulation between the magnetically permeable cores 26 and the primarywinding 22 to help provide electrical separation between the twocomponents.

In some embodiments, the primary winding 22 can include a first end 30,shown in FIG. 5, which can be electrically connected to the power module12. The primary winding 22 can also include a second end 32, shown inFIG. 2. The magnetically permeable band 14 can include a lead wire 34which can also be connected to the power module as shown in FIG. 5, thelead wire 34 extending through the flexible band of magneticallypermeable cores 26, as shown in FIG. 2. As such, the flexible band ofmagnetically permeable cores 26 can be strung together on the lead wire34. The primary winding 22 can be wound around the magneticallypermeable cores 26, and the second end 32 can then be connected to thelead wire 34, as shown in FIG. 2 a. As such, the lead wire 34 can beconnected to the power module and the primary coil 22 to form a closedloop between the power module and the primary coil 22. As such, when thepower module is turned on, current can be supplied through the primarycoil 22. An AC current can be produced by the power module such thatcurrent within the primary winding 22 can alternate or vary. Thechanging current within the primary winding 22 can produce a changingmagnetic flux within the core 20 of the magnetically permeable band 14.

A detailed view of a bead 18 disposed on the magnetically permeable band14 of FIG. 1 is shown in FIG. 3. The bead 18 can include an aperture 36or hole shaped to receive the magnetically permeable band 14. Theaperture 36 allows the bead 18 to slide freely along the magneticallypermeable band 14.

An exploded view of the bead 18 from FIG. 3 is shown in FIG. 4. The bead18 can include a secondary winding 38 disposed on the bead 18, thesecondary winding 38 positioned around the magnetically permeable band14 when the aperture 36 receives the magnetically permeable band 14. Atleast one light source 40 can be electrically connected to the secondarywinding 38. In some embodiments, multiple light sources 40 can belocated on the bead 18. The light source 40 in some embodiments can be alight emitting diode. In other embodiments, the light source 40 can beany suitable lighting structure including compact fluorescent lamps,incandescent bulbs, lamps, etc.

As previously noted above, when an AC current is supplied from the powermodule to the primary winding, the varying current through the primarywinding can produce a varying magnetic flux through the core of themagnetically permeable band. Since the secondary winding 38 of the bead18 is positioned around the magnetically permeable band, the varyingmagnetic flux produced in the core can thereby cause a current to beinduced in the secondary winding 38 on the bead 18. The current producedin the secondary winding 38 can then be supplied to the light source 40in order to power the light source and illuminate the bead 18.

The use of induction between the primary winding on the magneticallypermeable band and the secondary winding 38 on the bead 18 can allow thebead to slide along the magnetically permeable band freely whileremaining lit. The AC current supplied to the primary winding allowsinduction in the secondary winding 38 to occur no matter where the bead18 is located on the magnetically permeable band.

Similarly, as shown in FIG. 1, multiple beads 18 can be placed on themagnetically permeable band 14. Each bead 18 can have a similarstructure to the bead seen in FIGS. 3 and 4, each bead 18 having acorresponding aperture 36 shaped to receive the magnetically permeableband, a corresponding secondary coil 38 positioned around themagnetically permeable band when the magnetically permeable band isreceived by the corresponding aperture 36, and a corresponding lightsource 40 electrically connected to the secondary winding 40. When ACcurrent is supplied to the primary winding, a current can be induced aspreviously described in each of the corresponding secondary windings,such that each of the corresponding light sources can light up. As such,the beads 18 can be arranged or rearranged or personalized on themagnetically permeable band in different orientations to the user'spreferences without having to rewire the apparatus 10. This can helpprovide interchangeable light up beads or charms.

Referring again to FIG. 4, in some embodiments, the bead 18 can furtherinclude a bobbin 42. The aperture 36 can be located in or through thebobbin 42. The bead 18 can also include an outer bead shell 44 disposedon the bobbin 42. The secondary winding 38 and the light source 40 canbe disposed on the bobbin 42 and are partially covered by the outer beadshell 44. The outer bead shell 44 can be translucent such that lightfrom the light source 40 can pass through the outer bead shell 44. Theouter bead shell 44 can provide a wide variety of different aestheticappearances for the bead 18. The outer bead shell 44 can be a variety ofcolors, and can be a variety of shapes, including but not limited to,round, square, triangular, cylindrical, etc., or shaped to resemble awide variety of items, including but not limited to, animals, sportsequipment, flowers, vehicles, stars, etc. In some embodiments, the bead18 can also include a decorative outer covering 46 which can helpprovide further aesthetic enhancement to the bead 18. In suchembodiments, the light source 40 can be positioned to shine lightthrough the outer bead shell 44 and between the decorative outercovering 46. Additionally, in some embodiments, one or more danglecharms can be attached to the bead 18 to help provide aestheticvariation between multiple beads 18.

In some embodiments, the bead 18 can further include a secondary printedcircuit board 48, the secondary winding 38 being electrically connectedto the light source 40 via the secondary printed circuit board 48. Insome embodiments, the secondary printed circuit board 48 can be aflexible circuit board that can be wrapped around the bobbin 42 to atleast partially enclose the secondary winding 38.

The secondary printed circuit board 48 can be beneficial when multiplelight sources 40 are used on the bead 18. The multiple light sources canbe mounted to the secondary printed circuit 48 and the secondary winding38 can be connected or soldered to the secondary printed circuit board48 to electrically connect the secondary winding 38 to all the lightsources 40, as opposed to the secondary winding 38 having to be hardwired to each light source 40 individually. The secondary printedcircuit board 48 can also be programmed to produce a desired lightcharacteristic. For instance the secondary printed circuit board 48could be programmed to cause the light source 40 to blink or light up intimed intervals. A wide variety of programming can be utilized toperform a variety of lighting functions.

In some embodiments, the bead 18 can also include a bead wrapping layer50. The bead wrapping layer 50 can include a shrink wrap material. Thebead wrapping layer 50 can then be heated to shrink the wrapping layer50 around the secondary printed circuit board 48, the light source 40,and the secondary winding 48 to enclose the secondary printed circuitboard 48, the light source 40, and the secondary winding 38. The beadwrapping layer 50 can help protect the secondary winding 38 andsecondary printed circuit board 48 from outside elements such as waterand dust.

An exploded view of the power module 12 of FIG. 1 is shown in FIG. 5.The power module 12 can include an outer case 52, and a battery 54disposed inside the outer case 52. In some embodiments, the battery 54can be a rechargeable battery such that the battery 54 does not have tobe continually replaced, but can be recharged and used again. Thebattery 54 can act as a power source for the jewelry apparatus 10. Thepower module 12 can also include a primary printed circuit board 56. Theprimary printed circuit board 56 can be electrically connected to thebattery 54. The primary printed circuit board 56 can also beelectrically connected to the first end 30 of the primary winding 22such that power from the battery 54 is supplied to the primary winding22 via the primary printed circuit board 56. The primary printed circuitboard 56 can also be programmed to control the operation of the jewelryapparatus 10, or be programmed to operate the jewelry apparatus 10 indifferent modes. For instance, as previously mentioned in someembodiments, the light sources on the beads can be configured to blinkin timed intervals. The primary printed circuit board 56 in such anembodiment can be programmed to supply power to the primary winding 22in timed intervals such that induction to the secondary winding on thebead is staggered and the light sources on the bead appear to blink.

The power module 12 can also include a push button switch 58. The pushbutton switch 58 can be configured to cooperate with the primary printedcircuit board 56 to effectively turn the jewelry apparatus 10 on andoff. In some embodiments, the push button switch 58 can be configured toalternate between several different positions, each position placing thejewelry apparatus 10 in a different mode. For instance, the push buttonswitch 58 could be used to switch the jewelry apparatus 10 from an onand off mode, as well as to a blinking mode in those embodiments havingsuch functionality.

In some embodiments, the magnetically permeable bracelet 14 includes afirst end 60 and a second end 62. The first end 60 can be fixedlyconnected to the power module 12, and the second end 62 can bedetachably coupled to the power module 12. As such, the user can wrapthe magnetically permeable band 14 around the user's person and couplethe second end 62 of the magnetically permeable band 14 to the powermodule 12 in order to help retain the jewelry apparatus 10 on the user'sperson.

The first end 60 of the magnetically permeable band 14 can be fixedlyconnected to the power module 12 via by mechanical fasteners such asscrews, bolts or rivets, by adhesives such as glues and epoxies, or byany other suitable manner which can fixedly connect the first end 60 ofthe magnetically permeable band 14 to the power module 12. The secondend 62 of the magnetically permeable band 14 can include any suitablemechanism for detachably coupling the second end 62 of the magneticallypermeable band 14 to the power module 12, including but not limited to,clasps, latches, hook and loop assemblies, buttons, snaps, etc.

In one embodiment, the second end 62 of the magnetically permeable band14 can include a magnetic clasp 64 configured to detachably couple tothe power module 12. The magnetic clasp 64 can include a finding 66 anda magnetic insert 68 shown in FIG. 2. Referring again to FIG. 5, thepower module 12 can include a magnetic plate 70 located within the outercase 52. The power module 12 can also include a clasp hole 72. Themagnetic plate 70 can be positioned to cover the clasp hole 72 such thatthe finding 66 can be inserted through the clasp hole 72, and themagnetic insert will be attracted and magnetically coupled to themagnetic plate 70. The magnetic clasp 64 can help allow the second end62 of the magnetically permeable band 14 to be quickly and efficientlycoupled to and decoupled from the power module 12.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 6-8, the jewelry assembly 10 caninclude a charging station 74. The charging station 74 can be configuredto selectively couple with the power module 12. The charging station 74can be configured to supply power to the power module 12, specificallyto recharge the battery. The charging station 74 can include a baseportion 76 and a top portion 78. The top portion 78 can be shaped toreceive the power module 12 such that the power module 12 can rest inthe top portion 78. The top portion 78 can also include a chargingstation printed circuit board 80 that includes a positive and negativepin 82 and 84 that can extend upward from the top portion 78 of thecharging station. As shown in FIG. 9, the underside 86 of the powermodule 12 can include positive and negative contacts 88 and 90. When thepower module 12 is received by the top portion 78 of the chargingstation 74, the positive and negative pins 82 and 84 can make electricalcontact with the positive and negative contacts 88 and 90 respectively,such that the charging station 84 can be electrically couple to thepower module 12.

The charging station 74 can further include a power cord 92 electricallycoupled to the charging station printed circuit board 80, shown in FIG.7. The power cord 92 can be fed through a cord hole 94 in the back ofthe top portion 78, shown in FIG. 8, and be coupled to the chargingstation printed circuit board. The power cord can then be selectivelycoupled with an alternate power source such as a wall outlet or anotherelectronic device to supply power to the power module. The power cordcan be any suitable cord for connecting to an alternate power source,including but not limited to AC power cords or USB cables.

Referring to FIG. 10, one example of a power module 12 as mayimplemented for a jewelry apparatus 10 as described herein may include apower source 54 such as a 3.7V battery, which in various embodiments maybe part of or otherwise coupled to a charge circuit including a firstterminal 90 coupled to ground and a second terminal 88 coupled to thebattery 54 via a charge controller 101. The charge circuit may beeffective to recharge the battery upon connection of the first andsecond terminals to an external power source. A direct current output(e.g., 3.7 Vdc) is provided from the power source to a controller 102which is configured to generate drive signals in association with anadjustable frequency. The frequency may in one embodiment be userselectable by actuation of an external device such as for example a pushbutton 58 on the power module, and may be determined according to one ofa plurality of frequency modes, such as: a fixed frequency (e.g., 300kHz); a swept frequency (e.g., 200 kHz- 400 kHz); or powered off. Theoutput signals from the controller 102 having modulated frequency outputaccording to the user selected mode are provided to each of first andsecond amplifiers 103, 104, respectively. A differential output from theamplifiers 103, 104 is provided across a primary coil 22 having itsopposing ends coupled across the respective amplifiers.

Referring to FIG. 11, one example of internal circuitry for a bead 18 asdisclosed herein may include a secondary coil 38 coupled across aresonant capacitor 111. In one embodiment, the secondary inductance coil38 and the resonant capacitor 111 have fixed values so as collectivelydefine an LC resonant circuit having a resonant frequency tuned to avalue such as for example 300 kHz. Upon exposure to a fluctuatingmagnetic field, the circuit oscillates at its resonant frequency and analternating current is generated through a current limiting resistor112. One or more light sources 40 as shown in FIG. 11 may include afirst light source branch and a second light source branch coupled inparallel across the output for the resonant circuit. The first branchmay include for example one or more LED's arranged in a first seriesorientation, while the second branch may include for example another oneor more LED's arranged in a second series orientation, wherein the lightsources 40 make effective use of each of a positive and a negativepolarity for the received 300 kHz sinusoidal output waveform.

Referring now to FIGS. 12-13, in one embodiment an inter-jewelryapparatus communication system as disclosed herein may comprise firstand second jewelry assemblies 120 and 122 including a wireless networkfor communicating the two jewelry assemblies.

In a first example as shown in FIG. 12 a, first and second transceiversmay be disposed within the power modules for each of first and secondjewelry assemblies 120 and 122, respectively, wherein wirelesscommunication between the first and second jewelry assemblies isprovided.

In a second example as shown in FIG. 12 b, first and second transceiversmay be disposed within the beads for each of first and second jewelryassemblies 120 and 122, respectively, wherein wireless communicationbetween the first and second jewelry assemblies is provided.

In a third example as shown in FIG. 12 c, first and second transceiversmay be disposed within either of the beads or the power modules for eachof first and second jewelry assemblies 120 and 122, respectively,wherein wireless communication between the first and second jewelryassemblies is provided.

Otherwise stated, a system arrangement and device implementation isdisclosed herein for a wireless powered and coordinated inter-jewelrycommunication system effective to produce desired outputs upondetermining a proximity match. Each jewelry assembly in one example mayinclude a near field wireless power transmitter and data transceiver,further powered by the power source and configured to receive data froman external controller, and one or more light sources which may bepowered and coordinated by the transceiver circuitry through a wirelessinductive link.

The terms “transceiver” or “transceiver circuitry” as used herein mayunless otherwise stated refer to a device that is configured to transmitand receive signals wirelessly, such as for example utilizing radiofrequency (RF), infrared (IR) frequency, RFID, audio or otherelectromagnetic signals for inter-bracelet communication.

In one embodiment wherein transceiver circuitry is provided within abead for a jewelry assembly as represented in FIG. 13, a secondaryinductance coil 38 is sized and arranged alongside a resonant capacitor131, collectively defining an LC resonant circuit having a resonantfrequency, such that upon exposure to a fluctuating magnetic field thecircuit oscillates at its resonant frequency and an alternating currentis generated. This alternating current is converted to DC power (Vdc) bya rectifier bridge 132 having an input end coupled across the resonantcapacitor 131. A voltage regulator 133 may be coupled to an output endof the rectifier for power factor correction or otherwise for furtherstability and increased efficiency in the DC output. A current limitingresistor is coupled on a first end to the voltage regulator 133 andfurther to receive the DC current, and on a second end in series with alighting source 40 such as an LED array. The opposing end of the LEDarray 40 is coupled to a collector for a switching element 135, thedrain of the switching element coupled to ground. The base of theswitching element is coupled to receive driving signals from acontroller 134 associated with the transceiver, which is further coupledto receive input signals from transceiver antennae 136 or an equivalentcarrier.

The term “controller” as used herein may refer to, be embodied by orotherwise be included within a machine, such as a general purposeprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specificintegrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) orother programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic,discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed andprogrammed to perform or cause the performance of the functionsdescribed herein. A general purpose processor can be a microprocessor,but in the alternative, the processor can be a controller,microcontroller, or state machine, combinations of the same, or thelike. A processor can also be implemented as a combination of computingdevices, e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a pluralityof microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with aDSP core, or any other such configuration.

The terms “switching element” and “switch” may be used interchangeablyand may refer herein to at least: a variety of transistors as known inthe art (including but not limited to FET, BJT, IGBT, JFET, etc.), aswitching diode, a silicon controlled rectifier (SCR), a diode foralternating current (DIAC), a triode for alternating current (TRIAC), amechanical single pole/double pole switch (SPDT), or electrical, solidstate or reed relays. Where either a field effect transistor (FET) or abipolar junction transistor (BJT) may be employed as an embodiment of atransistor, the scope of the terms “gate,” “drain,” and “source”includes “base,” “collector,” and “emitter,” respectively, andvice-versa.

Referring to a particular embodiment wherein the jewelry assembliesimplement wireless communication via radio frequency, an RF transceivermay be housed within a bead or within the power module housing. The RFtransceiver may be configured to derive its power from either theprimary coil or directly from the power source, e.g., battery.

In various embodiments, the RF transceiver antennae may be an integralpart of the bead or power module housing. The RF antennae can be theprimary coil used for powering the beads, or alternatively can be thesecondary coil within the bead.

The RF signal may be produced by modulating the primary coil basefrequency by any of a number of modulation techniques as are known inthe art, including for example pulse width modulation (PWM), frequencymodulation (FM), amplitude modulation (AM) and the like.

Exemplary RF formats as may be utilized include but are not limited toproprietary 2.4 GHz, proprietary 300-348 MHz, proprietary 389-464 MHz,proprietary 779-928 MHz, Zigbee 802.14.4, Bluetooth 802.14.1, etc.

In a jewelry assembly proximity configuration as noted herein, andfurther with reference to an exemplary process as shown in FIG. 14,transceivers are programmed with matched, unique serial numbers (forexample, both transceivers could have serial number 4509837). In step141, both transceivers continually broadcast their serial number at setintervals (e.g., five seconds). When the transceivers are notbroadcasting their serial number, they are in ‘receive’ mode and waitingto receive a matching serial number transmission (steps 142-144). If amatching serial number is received (e.g., “yes” in response to the queryin step 145), the supervising controller (e.g., microprocessor)recognizes the match and produces one of several outputs (step 146) suchas: lighting LEDs, producing sound, producing a flashing LED sequence,producing a vibration, and the like.

Alternatively, the transceiver may be configured to stay in receive modeuntil it receives a defined actuation such as for example a button pressfrom the user. The button press initiates a ‘send’ command and thetransceiver broadcasts its serial number.

Referring to a particular embodiment wherein the jewelry assembliesimplement infrared (IR) frequency communication, an IR transceiver maybe housed within a bead or within the power module housing. The IRtransceiver may be configured to derive its power from either theprimary coil or directly from the power source, e.g., battery.

Exemplary IR wavelengths which may be utilized range from 930-950 nm.Exemplary carrier frequencies which may be utilized further include 33kHz to 60 kHz.

In the jewelry assembly proximity configuration, transceivers areprogrammed with matched, unique serial numbers (for example, bothtransceivers could have serial number 4509837). Both transceiverscontinually broadcast their serial number at set intervals (e.g., fiveseconds). When the transceivers are not broadcasting their serialnumber, they are in ‘receive’ mode and waiting to receive a matchingserial number transmission. If a matching serial number is received, thesupervising controller (e.g., microprocessor) recognizes the match andproduces one of several outputs such as: lighting LEDs, producing sound,producing a flashing LED sequence, producing a vibration, and the like.

In another embodiment, an RFID tag may be housed in a bead. The poweringprimary coil may serve as the RFID tag power source and receivingantennae. A controller in the power module reads messages sent from theRFID tag via the primary coil antennae. When powered with theappropriate resonant frequency, the RFID tag outputs its stored IDinformation to the controller via the primary coil, whereupon thecontroller may be configured to act on this information accordingly.

In another embodiment, an audio microphone (input) and speaker (output)can be housed within a bead or in the power module housing. The audiomicrophone and speaker derive their power from either the primary coilor directly from the power source (e.g., battery). Exemplary audiofrequencies to be utilized may include 20 Hz-20 kHz. A controllerlocated either in the bead or the power module receives audio input fromthe microphone, reads the frequency, and responds with one of severalactions such as: lighting LEDs, producing sound, producing a flashingLED sequence, producing a vibration, and the like. A button press orequivalent actuation on the power module or on a bead can be configuredinitiate a sound output.

In one embodiment, control circuitry is provided within a bead for ajewelry assembly to provide a ‘timed’ bead configuration as representedin FIG. 15, wherein the controller 154 can be programmed to generate adesired color, pattern, or the like. An inductance coil 38 is sized andarranged alongside a resonant capacitor 151, collectively defining an LCresonant circuit having a resonant frequency, such that upon exposure toa fluctuating magnetic field the circuit oscillates at its resonantfrequency and an alternating current is generated. This alternatingcurrent is converted to DC power (Vdc) by a rectifier bridge 152 havingan input end coupled across the resonant capacitor 151. A voltageregulator 153 may be coupled to an output end of the rectifier forfurther stability and increased efficiency in the DC output. In theexample shown, three separate lighting branches may be coupled inparallel on respective first ends to the voltage regulator 153 andfurther to receive the DC current. Each branch may include a seriescircuit of a current limiting resistor 155, a lighting source 40 and aswitching element 156. In one example, the lighting sources 40collectively comprise an RGB LED matrix, wherein an LED of a first color(e.g., red) may be coupled in series with a first switching element 156a, an LED of a second color (e.g., green) may be coupled in series witha second switching element 156 b, and an LED of a third color (e.g.,blue) may be coupled in series with a third switching element 156 c. Theswitching elements 156 a, 156 b, 156 c are coupled to receive drivingsignals from the controller 154 and modulate lighting intensity for therespective LED's, wherein a desired lighting output (e.g., color,pattern) can be generated.

Similar wireless communication between multiple light up jewelryassemblies can used to communicate jewelry assemblies attached tovarious types of items such as backpacks, stuffed animals, hair ties,shoes, watches, purses, etc.

Thus, although there have been described particular embodiments of thepresent invention of a new and useful Inductive LED Jewelry, it is notintended that such references be construed as limitations upon the scopeof this invention except as set forth in the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A jewelry apparatus comprising: a power module; amagnetically permeable band connected to the power module, themagnetically permeable band comprising a core; and a primary windingdisposed around the core, the primary winding electrically connected tothe power module; and a bead having an aperture shaped to receive themagnetically permeable band, the bead comprising a secondary windingpositioned around the magnetically permeable band when the magneticallypermeable band is received through the aperture; and at least one lightsource electrically connected to the secondary winding.
 2. The apparatusof claim 1, wherein the bead further comprises: a bobbin, the aperturelocated in the bobbin; and an outer bead shell disposed on the bobbin,wherein the secondary winding and the at least one light source aredisposed on the bobbin and are at least partially covered by the outerbead shell.
 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the magneticallypermeable band further comprises a winding wrapping layer disposedaround the primary winding.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein thepower module further comprises a rechargeable battery and a primaryprinted circuit board, the primary printed circuit board electricallyconnected to the battery and the primary winding.
 5. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the primary printed circuit board is configured tosupply power to the primary winding via the battery at timed intervals.6. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a secondary printedcircuit board located on the bead, the secondary winding electricallyconnected to the at least one light source via the secondary printedcircuit board.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising acharging station configured to be selectively coupled to the powermodule, the charging station configured to supply power to the powermodule.
 8. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a fabriccovering at least partially enclosing the magnetically permeable band.9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the magnetically permeable bandincludes a first end and a second end, the first end fixedly connectedto the power module, the second end configured to detachably couple tothe power module.
 10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the second endof the magnetically permeable band includes a magnetic clasp configuredto detachably couple to the power module.
 11. The apparatus of claim 1,further comprising a wireless transceiver located on either the bead orthe power module.
 12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the magneticallypermeable band is flexible.
 13. The apparatus of claim 1, furthercomprising a plurality of beads, each bead comprising a correspondingaperture shaped to receive the magnetically permeable band; acorresponding secondary winding positioned around the magneticallypermeable band when the corresponding aperture receives the magneticallypermeable band; and a corresponding light source electrically connectedto the corresponding secondary winding.
 14. A jewelry apparatuscomprising: a power module; a magnetically permeable band connected tothe power module, the magnetically permeable band comprising a flexibleband of magnetically permeable cores connected to the power module; anda primary winding disposed around the flexible band of magneticallypermeable cores, the primary winding electrically connected to the powermodule; and a bead having an aperture shaped to receive the magneticallypermeable band, the bead comprising a secondary winding positionedaround the magnetically permeable band when the aperture receives themagnetically permeable band; and at least one light source electricallyconnected to the secondary winding.
 15. The apparatus of claim 14,wherein the flexible band of magnetically permeable cores furthercomprises a plurality of ferrite beads.
 16. The apparatus or claim 14,wherein the magnetically permeable band further comprises a corewrapping layer disposed around the flexible band of magneticallypermeable cores.
 17. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein: the primarywinding has a first primary winding end and second primary winding end,the first primary winding end electrically connected to the powermodule; and the apparatus further comprises a lead wire electricallyconnected to the power module, extending through the flexible band ofmagnetically permeable cores, and electrically connected to the secondprimary winding end to form a closed loop between the primary windingand power module.
 18. A jewelry apparatus comprising: a first jewelryassembly comprising a first power module; a first magnetically permeableband connected to the first power module, the first magneticallypermeable band including a first core and a first primary windingdisposed around the first magnetically permeable band; and a first beadhaving a first aperture shaped to receive the first magneticallypermeable band, the first bead including a first secondary windingpositioned around the first magnetically permeable band when the firstaperture receives the first magnetically permeable band, and a firstlight source electrically connected to the first secondary winding; asecond jewelry assembly comprising a second power module; a secondmagnetically permeable band connected to the second power module, thesecond magnetically permeable band including a second core and a secondprimary winding disposed around the second core; and a second beadhaving a second aperture shaped to receive the second magneticallypermeable band, the second bead including a second secondary windingpositioned around the second magnetically permeable band when the secondaperture receives the second magnetically permeable band, and a secondlight source electrically connected to the second secondary winding; anda wireless network configured to wirelessly communicate the firstjewelry assembly with the second jewelry assembly.
 19. The apparatus ofclaim 18, wherein: the wireless network further comprises a firstwireless transceiver and a second wireless transceiver; the firstwireless transceiver is located on either the first power module or thefirst bead and the first wireless transceiver creates a first signal;the second wireless transceiver is located on either the second powermodule or the second bead and the second wireless transceiver creates asecond signal.
 20. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the first andsecond light sources are configured to light up when the first jewelryapparatus and the second jewelry apparatus are in proximity to oneanother such that the first wireless transceiver receives the secondsignal and the second wireless transceiver receives the first signal.